Smart tips to navigate the US visa interview by international students

financialexpress.com:

By Madhushri Verma

Navigating the U.S. visa interview process can be intimidating for international students who are aspiring to pursue their education in the United States. While the process may appear challenging, careful planning can make the journey to secure a student (F-1) visa easier.

The good news is that many Indian students have successfully obtained a U.S. student visa in recent years. In fact, despite valid worries about delays and rejections, 2023 witnessed a remarkable trend in Indian students opting for education in the U.S. The U.S. State Department issued more than a lakh of F-1 visas to Indian students last year. That’s triple the number in 2019. This significant increase marks a historic moment as Indian students are poised to become the largest group of international students on U.S. university campuses, surpassing the number of students from China for the first time in many years.

While visa approval is possible, a few tips and tricks can make a difference in the visa process. It’s always advisable to start the process well in advance, as it can take several months. Once you’ve been accepted, start the visa application process right away.

To prepare, be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully and verify that the visa requirements are the most recent. You’ll need to fill out the required application forms, collate all essential documents, and arrange an interview at the embassy or consulate in India. Additionally, it’s crucial to be prepared for the possibility that the consular officer may request further details or documentation during the interview.

Be prepared to explain why you chose the university you plan to attend, why you’re pursuing your chosen course of study, what your career